FIA President Open to Revising Controversial Driver Conduct Guidelines After Backlash
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has signaled a possible revision of the controversial new guidelines introduced this year to regulate driver behavior, following strong backlash from drivers and teams across motorsport disciplines. The rules, which include fines ranging from €40,000 to €120,000 and the potential for race suspensions and license point deductions, aim to penalize swearing, public criticism of officials, and other forms of unsportsmanlike conduct.
However, drivers have criticized the strict measures, arguing that the high-pressure nature of motorsport leads to emotional reactions that should not warrant such severe consequences. Formula One stars like Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc have been penalized under the new regulations, sparking a broader debate over freedom of expression and fairness in how these rules are enforced.
In response to the outcry, Ben Sulayem acknowledged that “humans make the rules, and humans can improve the rules.” He confirmed that revisions are under consideration, with updates expected during the upcoming Miami Grand Prix weekend. The FIA has already taken steps in other series, such as the World Rally Championship, where officials agreed to distinguish between “controlled” environments, like press conferences, and “uncontrolled” moments during competition, allowing more leeway in the latter.
Further revisions may also extend to the racing guidelines themselves, prompted by incidents like the high-profile Verstappen-Norris clash. Discussions with drivers have led the FIA to target implementation of amended racing rules before the season’s end, pending approval in Qatar.
These developments mark a potential turning point in the FIA’s governance, showing a willingness to engage with driver concerns and modernize its approach to discipline in a sport where emotions often run high and global attention is constant.
